Rent in Lisbon, Return in Spain

Yes — most major rental car companies in Portugal allow you to rent a car in Lisbon and drop it off in Spain. However, expect to pay a one-way cross-border fee, and advance notice is required. This 2026 guide explains how to book, what it costs, and which companies make it easy.

✈️ How Cross-Border Car Rental Works from Portugal to Spain

If you’re planning a road trip from Portugal to Spain, cross-border rentals are a popular and flexible option. You can rent a car at Lisbon Airport, drive through stunning regions like the Alentejo, and return the vehicle in cities like Madrid, Seville, Malaga, or Barcelona.

🚧 Key Requirements for Driving from Lisbon to Spain

Before you book, here’s what most rental agencies require:

• ✅ Advance notification of international travel
• ✅ Valid driver’s license (EU, US, Canada, etc.)
• ✅ Credit card for security deposit
• ✅ Passport or ID
• ✅ Compliance with insurance rules (many require extra coverage)

💶 One-Way Rental Fees – What to Expect

One of the biggest considerations is the one-way drop-off fee. Here’s what typical fees look like:

💡 Tip: The one-way fee is usually higher if returning to a small city.

📍 Popular Routes – Lisbon to Spain

• Lisbon → Seville: ~4.5 hours (Most popular route)
• Lisbon → Madrid: ~6.5 hours
• Lisbon → Barcelona: ~12 hours (Consider flying back)
• Lisbon → Andalusia Road Trip: Via Évora, Mérida, Seville

🧭 Ideal for scenic drives, coastal towns, and historic cities on both sides of the border.

🌍 Can I Book This Online?

Yes — booking in advance online gives you:

• 🔍 Full visibility of one-way fees
• 💼 Proper insurance packages (incl. cross-border coverage)
• ✅ Confirmation of international drop-off availability
• 💳 Transparent payment and deposit options

🔗 Trusted platforms:

• Discovercars
• Rentalcars.com
• Auto Europe

🛡️ Do I Need Special Insurance?

If you’re driving internationally, rental companies may require:

• ✅ Cross-border insurance (usually €20–€50)
• ✅ Green Card (European motor insurance certificate)
• ✅ Optional Zero-Excess or Full Coverage

Always read the terms during checkout or request it at the counter.

🧠 Travel Tips for Cross-Border Driving

• 📞 Inform the rental company at the time of booking
• 🛂 Carry passport and driving license at all times
• ⛽ Use a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid surprises
• 📱 Use Google Maps offline for areas without signal
• 🚔 Obey traffic laws — fines follow across borders!

❓ FAQ – Renting a Car in Lisbon and Dropping It Off in Spain

Q: Can I rent a car in Lisbon and return it in Madrid?
Yes. Most large companies allow this with a one-way fee.

Q: How much is the one-way fee from Portugal to Spain?
Typically €100–€250 depending on location and supplier.

Q: Do I need to tell the rental company I’ll cross the border?
Yes. If you don’t, your insurance may be void.

Q: Can I use a debit card for cross-border rentals?
Some companies accept debit cards, but credit cards are safer for deposit purposes.

Q: Is a Green Card mandatory for Spain?
Not for EU-registered vehicles, but it’s often required by rental agencies as proof of coverage.

🧳 Summary: Should You Rent in Lisbon and Return in Spain?

✅ Cross-border rentals are convenient, legal, and easy if booked in advance with the right provider.